uses 4.5 quarts (1.05 gallons) of premium-grade SAE 0W-20 engine oil. To keep your car running smoothly for years to come, it’s essential to stay on top of regular oil maintenance, which includes knowing your vehicle’s engine oil capacity.

Staying on top of car maintenance can be a headache. Not only is it easy to forget, but regular maintenance tasks often come with a high price tag. Whether you want to save money or are simply interested in general car care, oil changes are an easy DIY task.

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2012 Honda Pilot engine oil capacity

The 2012 Honda Pilot has a 3.5L V6 engine with an oil capacity of 4.5 quarts. But the big question is, what exactly does that mean?

The oil capacity is the amount of oil needed for each oil change. However, oil capacity is not the same as engine displacement—these values are not interchangeable!

Engine displacement is listed as part of the engine’s type code (3.5L V6 engine) to indicate the volume taken up by the cylinders. So, a 2012 Honda Pilot with a 3.5L V6 engine has a displacement of 3.5 liters.

What kind of oil does a 2012 Honda Pilot need?

Before replacing your oil with just any engine oil, it’s important to know that not all engine oils are created equal! Instead, each has a unique blend of detergents and additives to keep your car’s engine running smoothly. The owner’s manual recommends only filling the 2012

Honda

Pilot with 0W-20 Honda Genuine motor oil.

Engine oils have a specific naming convention to indicate the temperature range that allows the oil to retain its viscosity (thickness). In a 0W-20 oil type, here’s what the code tells us:

“0” means that the oil is stable at freezing temperatures.

“W” stands for “winter,” indicating that the oil will keep your engine running smoothly in cold weather conditions.

“20” stands for the viscosity when the engine is running at its hottest temperatures, typically 212 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Honda Pilot owner’s manual recommends using a genuine motor oil or a synthetic blend that meets the API Certification standards (a seal is printed on the bottle indicating the API Certification). Making sure your selected oil meets these standards minimizes the wear and tear on your Honda Pilot’s engine.

MORE:

Ultimate FRAM oil filter guide

How often to change the oil on a 2012 Honda Pilot

Honda recommends changing the engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Since this is an extensive range, how do you hone in on the exact moment for an oil change?

The best practice is to check your oil levels regularly—some drivers opt for every other refuel, whereas others check the oil every month. No matter the schedule that works best for you, this is the easiest way to stay on top of your Honda Pilot’s oil maintenance.

However, being on top of oil changes isn’t always a reality. If you notice any of these signs, you are likely overdue for oil maintenance:

The oil has turned a noticeably dark brown or black color (Clean oil is light brown or amber, like a cup of tea. Dirty oil is like a cup of soda.)

Coarse or gritty feeling to the oil

Engine starts making

strange noises

(“Clattering,” ticking, or tapping sounds are some common signs of dirty oil)

Noticeable smells, especially of oil, smoke, or burning

Worsening performance

MORE:

What does the check engine light mean?

How to change your oil and oil filter

If your Honda Pilot is due for an oil change, know that this maintenance task is easy enough to DIY. Start by gathering your supplies to change the oil at home successfully. Here’s what is needed:

Socket wrench

Drain pan

Filter wrench (this unique tool specifically helps remove the old oil filter)

Replacement oil filter

4.2 quarts (1.05 gallons) of SAE 0W-20 premium motor oil

Once the tools are assembled, start the process by warming the engine up to normal operating temperature. Simply turn the engine on and let it run—this should only take 5 minutes or so in average weather conditions. Then, turn the engine off and pop the hood.

Follow these steps to change your Honda Pilot’s engine oil:

Unscrew and remove the oil fill cap

Get underneath the engine and position the oil drain pan beneath the oil drain

Use the socket wrench to remove the oil drain bolt and washer, draining the old oil into the drain pan

Remove the old oil filter with the filter wrench and allow the oil to continue draining into the pan

Install the new oil filter

Return the oil drain bolt to its spot and use a new washer to tighten the bolt to 29 lb-ft

Add the new oil from the top of the engine—check the oil level as you go by using the dipstick to fill the engine to the full Honda Pilot oil capacity.

Screw and tighten the fill cap back into place

Finally, check your work! After changing your oil, it’s a good idea to turn on your car and let your engine run for about 30 seconds before you check the oil level. This will give you a more accurate measurement, and you’ll be able to top it off if necessary.

Don’t forget the clean-up! Never pour dirty oil on the ground or in a garbage bin. Instead, pour it into a sealable container and bring it to your local recycling center. The center will make sure the oil is processed as hazardous waste.

MORE:

What happens if you put the wrong fuel in your car?

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

Staying on top of your Honda’s maintenance is essential for keeping it in good running condition!

Unfortunately, your car won’t remind you to go through the tedious process of making sure you have the right price and coverage. But

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With Jerry’s help, you can automate your insurance policy maintenance so you don’t have to worry about it yourself!

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